PERSIST Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'persist' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of persist are abide , continue , endure , and last . While all these words mean "to exist over a period of time or indefinitely," persist suggests outlasting the normal or appointed time and often connotes obstinacy or doggedness. // the sense of guilt persisted

Q: When can 'abide' be used instead of 'persist'?

The meanings of abide and persist largely overlap; however, abide implies stable and constant existing especially as opposed to mutability. // a love that abides through 40 years of marriage

Q: Where would 'continue' be a reasonable alternative to 'persist'?

While the synonyms continue and persist are close in meaning, continue applies to a process going on without ending. // the search for peace will continue

Q: When would 'endure' be a good substitute for 'persist'?

The words endure and persist can be used in similar contexts, but endure adds an implication of resisting destructive forces or agencies. // in spite of everything, her faith endured

Q: When could 'last' be used to replace 'persist'?

The synonyms last and persist are sometimes interchangeable, but last , especially when unqualified, may stress existing beyond what is normal or expected. // buy shoes that will last

persist

verb

pər-ˈsist

Definition of persist next

as in to persevere

to continue despite difficulties, opposition, or discouragement she persisted in her efforts and eventually got the job she wanted

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to remain

to remain indefinitely in existence or in the same state my headache persisted for almost the entire day

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb persist differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of persist are abide, continue, endure, and last. While all these words mean "to exist over a period of time or indefinitely," persist suggests outlasting the normal or appointed time and often connotes obstinacy or doggedness.

the sense of guilt persisted

When can abide be used instead of persist?

The meanings of abide and persist largely overlap; however, abide implies stable and constant existing especially as opposed to mutability.

a love that abides through 40 years of marriage

Where would continue be a reasonable alternative to persist?

While the synonyms continue and persist are close in meaning, continue applies to a process going on without ending.

the search for peace will continue

When would endure be a good substitute for persist?

The words endure and persist can be used in similar contexts, but endure adds an implication of resisting destructive forces or agencies.

in spite of everything, her faith endured

When could last be used to replace persist?

The synonyms last and persist are sometimes interchangeable, but last, especially when unqualified, may stress existing beyond what is normal or expected.

buy shoes that will last

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of persist If current market conditions persist, local businesses could only build about half of all transportation projects when construction demand peaks around 2040. —

Charlotte Observer, 6 May 2026 Addressing Cal Fire arson and bomb investigators Slonim and Bryan Gouge, State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant appeared frustrated that problems persisted, the attendee said. —

Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 6 May 2026 And with numerous economic hurdles looming now, including interest rates still being elevated, stock market volatility persisting and inflation rising and continuing to shape household budgets, the timing of those withdrawals can have consequences that ripple far beyond a single account statement. —

Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 6 May 2026 The restriction of shipping through the Strait has led to surging oil and gas prices and higher costs of other commodities around the world which could persist especially as Iran wants to continue managing the Strait after the war. —

Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for persist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for persist

Verb

Jokic blamed himself for the series loss, which ended with Minnesota persevering through injuries to Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, Ayo Dosunmu and Kyle Anderson.

— Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 1 May 2026
Either way, the Cubs have persevered through some key injuries, mostly to the bullpen, and are likely to get closer Daniel Palenica back this weekend, perhaps as early as Friday.

— Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2026